Gary Lineker and Joe Cole have ignited a tongue-in-cheek conspiracy theory suggesting FIFA president Gianni Infantino is deliberately shown on screen during every World Cup fixture. The theory emerged during a discussion on The Rest is Football podcast, where Cole expressed his annoyance at Infantino's constant presence in broadcasts.
Infantino's On-Screen Appearances
Cole stated: "FIFA in general [I've been disappointed with], but what you told me about [Gianni] Infantino, I've noticed it - I can't unnotice it. Every game, in the first half and the second half, they have to show Infantino's head on the telly. Just like, you're the head of the federation, just a megalomania about him: he needs to be front and centre." Lineker agreed, adding: "You'll watch the coverage. In the first 10 minutes of the first half, the first 10 minutes of the second half, you will see a shot of Gianni Infantino."
Infantino's Travel Schedule
The Swiss-born official has been spotted at countless matches throughout the 2026 tournament, which is taking place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. According to the BBC, Infantino has taken over 27 flights during the competition, frequently travelling between host cities. During the group stage, he attended two matches daily, often hundreds of miles apart, sometimes requiring three different flights in a single day.
Cole's Personal Encounter
Cole recounted a personal experience with Infantino, saying: "I played in a friendly game with him about five years ago. I was in Dubai, the Dubai Football Federation invited me to play in a game. He was there, there was a couple of ex-players. He was playing in the game and he was just... You're looking at him, he's strolling around the pitch, nobody is touching him - everyone's all like 'oh Mister...' The ball dropped in midfield and I thought 'I could do him here.'" Cole added: "I could do him here, I pulled out. The gentleman in me pulled out, but I regretted it because I could have really cleaned him out. Infantino's annoyed me."
FIFA's Response
In response to queries about Infantino's extensive travel, a FIFA spokesman clarified: "The Fifa president routinely travels, together with relevant officials, on business and tournament-related matters and strives to visit member associations of Fifa whenever he can. Sometimes travel is organised on commercial [including low-cost] airlines and sometimes it is on private charter, depending on which is more efficient and cost-effective under the circumstances."
Controversy Over Trump Involvement
Last week, Infantino faced fierce criticism and calls for his resignation after US President Donald Trump interfered in a World Cup disciplinary case. USA striker Folarin Balogun had his one-match suspension overturned following his dismissal in the 2-0 victory over Bosnia in the round of 32. President Trump subsequently disclosed he had requested Infantino examine the incident. Belgium's challenge against the ruling was later rejected, although they proceeded to defeat the co-hosts 4-1 and advance to the quarter-finals. The controversy surrounding Trump's involvement is anticipated to continue, with mounting pressure for Infantino to vacate the position he has occupied for a decade.
Infantino's FIFA Tenure
Infantino has led FIFA since 2016, securing re-election in 2019 and 2023. Now a decade into his tenure, he is set to stand for re-election next year and is currently thought to be the sole candidate.
